Loading systems for bulk materials handling

When bulk materials are loaded the materials being moved have to be batched and balanced. This can, often be carried out in a continuous process at the same time as conveying and conditioning the material, e.g. making up mixes. The bulk material flows are measured and metered with weighing equipment integrated into the transport routes. Calibratable belt weighers, continuous flowmeters or mass flowmeters can be used as the weighing equipment to suit the bulk material, environmental conditions and accuracy requirements. Control of the mix formulations, conveyor drives, hopper slide gates, start-up warmings, etc. can be undertaken partially or in full by the weighing and bulk material handling system. The entire system is controlled and operated at a central position, in the control room or through a second, local, operator's station directly at the loading point. Continuous measurement and control of the bulk material flows makes bulk material handling faster and more cost-effective. The capital expenditure for weighing and making up mixtures on a continuous basis is relatively low when compared with other methods of batching and recording bulk materials. Time and money can be saved by making up the mixture, weighing and batching during transport. The areas of application are all loading units for bulk materials, e.g. onto road vehicles, rail wagons, ships or stockpiles.